Nail Structure

This is part of the nail plate that extends past the fingertip. It is referred as “distal edge”, that is shaped or trimmed in the nail care service.

• Lunula

• Free edge

• Nail Groove

• Cuticle

It is found at the end of the fingertip. This serves as protective seal or barrier from harmful bacteria and it is considered a sensitive part.

• Hyponychium

• Nail Groove

• Mantle

• Nail Wall

This part of the nail where the nail plate rests on. It is also a continuation of the matrix and it is abundantly supplied with blood vessels and nerves. This makes our nails appear pinkish.

• Cuticle

• Nail Groove

• Free Edge

• Nail Bed

This lies alongside of the edge of the nail plate. The function of the nail groove is to keep the nail growing in a straight line.

• Cuticle

• Nail Groove

• Free Edge

• Nail Bed

This is referred also as “root of the nail”. It is situated beneath the cuticle. It is where the keratin cells are manufactured forming our nail plate. It contains blood vessels and nerves. When it is damaged the nail will be deformed as it grows.

• Nail Plate

• Nail Wall

• Matrix

• Lunula

It is referred to as “moon” which is found at the base of the nail, a front end of the matrix. It is pearly in color because of the keratin cells that haven’t been flattened yet. As this keratin cells lose viability, they separate becoming transparent and forming our nail plate.

• Lunula

• Nail wall

• Free edge

• Hyponychium

It is the layer of epidermis at the base of the nail, before the cuticle. The function of this is to protect the matrix from physical damage.

• Mantle

• Cuticle

• Lunula

• Hyponychium

It is the overlapping epidermis around the nail found at the base. It serves as a protection from harmful bacteria.

• Mantle

• Cuticle

• Lunula

• Hyponychium

It can also be referred as lateral nail folds that overlaps the side of nail. It protects the edges of the nail plate. It serves as a guide for the nail to follow as it grows. Sometimes there are also hangnails that needs to be trimmed.

• Hyponychium

• Nail Bed

• Nail Wall

• Nail Groove

It is also referred as “nail body” that rest on the nail bed. It is made out of hardened keratin that serves a protective

covering on the soft tissues underneath. It is where we can apply colored polish

• Nail Plate

• Nail Bed

• Nail Wall

• Nail Groove